Pineapple is the December Harvest of the Month

December brings the first days of winter, so it may be nice to think about warmer weather. And nothing says ‘warm weather’ quite like pineapple, the December Harvest of the Month. So, if prospect of cold weather is getting you down, perhaps a tropical fruit like pineapple can lift your spirits.  With that in mind, please be sure to try some of our delicious menu items featuring this tasty fruit in our CHI cafes during the month.

Did You Know?

  • Pineapples are known to strengthen your gums and keep your teeth healthy & strong.
  • Pineapples contain the enzyme Bromelain that may help arthritis by reducing inflammation.
  • Pineapples used to be valued at $5,000, rarely eaten and used as a status symbol at parties.
  • A whole pineapple is made up of multiple berries that have fused together.

Try These Delicious Recipes

Grilled Halibut with Pineapple
Ham and Pineapple Kabobs
Pina Colada Breakfast Shake

How to Buy and Store: Density is a good indicator of freshness, regardless of the size of the pineapple. The fruit should be free of any soft spots, which indicate spoilage. Search for a sweet smell at the end of the stem, and avoid pineapples that smell sour, musty, or fermented. Pineapple can be safely left at room temperature for a day or two. Refrigeration can prolong the life of the fruit if necessary. Pre-cut pineapple should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 2-3 days.

Making it Kid-Friendly: Pineapple is often a huge hit with kids. Most children love fruit, and pineapple is no exception. Pineapple is not the most common fruit, but it is viewed as a delicacy among children when served. Pineapple goes well in a fruit salad and can even be incorporated into a wide variety of yummy desserts.

Nutrition and Health Benefits: Pineapple is rich in antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, which helps to reduce inflammation and fight cancer. The Vitamin C content also helps with general immunity, protecting individuals from sicknesses like the cold & flu. Bromelain, the same enzyme that is used as a meat tenderizer, helps aid digestion in the intestinal tract. Pineapple also contains thiamine, a vitamin that is essential in energy production pathways.

Calories: 82Saturated Fat: 0g
Total Fat: 0gMonounsaturated Fat: 0g
Total Carbohydrate: 22gVitamin C: 132%
Fiber: 2gProtein: 1g
Calcium: 2%Iron: 3%